| There are three main types of IP telephony solutions for corporate users. The simplest involves replacing the external line with an IP telephony system, connecting the existing PBX*2 and analog phone system to an IP network via a "VoIP gateway." This solution allows investment costs to be curbed because the existing equipment can continue to be used without modifications. However, it will not be possible to link such an analog system to computers in the future should you desire to build a more advanced system such as CTI*3. |
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| Therefore, more companies are now choosing to introduce IP telephony into their internal networks. In this case, there are two approaches. One is to install an "IP-PBX," an IP telephony-enabled PBX. IP-PBX provides conventional PBX functions such as "call hold" and "call forwarding" on a software basis. Although it is necessary to make an investment in IP telephony equipment, it will allow the full potential of IP telephony to be exploited, including connectivity with computers. If a company has already constructed an intranet using wide-area Ethernet, it is possible to support all IP phones installed at their offices through a single IP-PBX. |
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| The other approach is to outsource operation and management of IP-PBX to an external service provider. This type of outsourcing service is called "IP Centrex," and was used in the Tokyo Gas case mentioned above. Telecom carriers and ISPs have IP-PBX equipment capable of providing comprehensive service, including extension calls, to corporate users who have an IP network. In exchange for certain service fees, these users can use IP-based internal and external lines without the workload of operating or managing an IP-PBX system. |
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*2 PBX (Private Branch eXchange): Used in business phones, etc. PBX is installed at each office to provide various functions such as key numbers, extension calls, group management, call hold, and call forwarding.
*3 CTI (Computer Telephony Integration): Technology that integrates telephony and facsimile services into a computer system, mainly used in customer support and call center operations. By combining a customer database with IP phones, it becomes possible to quickly and correctly call up customer information to the computer screen while talking with that customer on the phone. |
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